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The under-pressure manager declared he did not fear dismissal, claiming, “We are extremely close to a turnaround,” despite edging perilously close to being fired with a comprehensive defeat by their arch-rivals.

Another Meltdown Leads to Old Firm Disaster

The Hoops had led their oldest rivals at the interval but a second-half capitulation enabled Rangers to move level on points with the reigning league title holders. The French coach, who was appointed from the MLS, has now presided over six setbacks in eight matches.

“The board and I are united with the board,” said the manager.

Pressed on the speculation, Nancy replied: “That’s not my focus. My focus is on working out methods to help my team to excel on small moments.

Fan Fury Erupts

Celtic’s support displayed their anger – directed at the dugout and directors – in their hundreds at Parkhead. Club directors are thought to be considering to re-appoint the interim manager, who had a fruitful caretaker period previously, if Nancy departs.

“It’s the results [that leads to pressure]. So this is the reality for the moment. Yet when I say that’s how it is, it doesn’t mean that I am a defeatist guy. Absolutely not. The message is we are really close, imminently close to turn things around.”

“Really, Really Close”

Nancy remains focused on the fact his team show good levels for one half at a time. Indeed, if not for poor finishing they would have been greater than 1-0 up. “There were positives aside from the fact that we missed our chances,” he said. “I acknowledge that we lost, but I must remain fair.

“The performance we had at certain moments was of top quality. This is the reality. And I would not say that if it was different. But that’s why, regarding outcomes, I said we've seen this before. For that reason I feel a change is coming to a shift in fortunes. Currently: small things.”

“We produced a lot of encouraging signs that we did, once more. However is consistency. My narrative would be different if I didn't believe it. This is why I am convinced the team can to fix this.”

Opposition Reaction Outlook

Danny Röhl was cautious about a serious challenge even after what appeared to be a huge result. “Step by step, then we can develop a challenge,” he said. “The confidence in the group is immense.”